However, strictly speaking, only those gems with lilac to deep purple colors remain amethysts.

EnhancementsĪ variety of treatments can change the color of amethysts. However, synthetic rough material is sometimes sold as natural rough. Since natural amethyst is so abundant and inexpensive, little incentive exists to purchase synthetics. SyntheticsĪmethysts can be grown hydrothermally in labs, and manufacturers can also create them by bombarding specially prepared smoky quartz with gamma rays. However, some gem cutters may opt for designs that combine the zones, creating interesting flashes of color. Usually, faceters will cut ametrines into rectangular emerald-cut shapes to highlight the two colors. Since purple quartz is amethyst and yellow quartz is citrine, this means such a gem consists of amethyst and citrine zones, hence the name. These layers result from stop-and-start growth during the formation of the crystal underground, a process known as twinning. What's the Difference Between Amethyst and Ametrine?Īmetrine is a variety of quartz with two distinct color zones, purple and yellow. The deep purple zones in this 9.81-ct amethyst from Boudi, Morocco produce an hourglass shape within the gem. Amethysts may show color zoning, both uneven (unintentional) color distribution as well as color bands (intentional). Natural amethyst receives its color from the presence of iron and other trace elements as well as natural irradiation. They also all have greater specific gravity values. Sapphires, spinels, and rhodolites all have higher refractive indices (RI), and spinels and rhodolites are also isometric. Nevertheless, these gems have notable differences in both optical and physical properties. However, since these gems occur rarely in purple colors, you’re more likely to encounter amethysts misidentified as these rarer and more expensive stones. Identifying CharacteristicsĪmethysts may appear similar to other popular transparent gemstones such as sapphires, spinels, and rhodolite garnets. Gold and pearl engagement ring with amethysts.

Used with permission.Īmethysts can serve as beautiful centerpieces as well as accent or side stones in jewelry. Custom octagon-cut amethyst, medium-dark reddish purple, 19.35 cts, 16.4 mm, Four Peaks Mine, Maricopa Co., Arizona. Skilled faceters can also experiment with custom designs. For example, Barion cuts work well for large, lightly colored stones, while shallow designs and fantasy cuts work well for darker gems. Transparent, eye-clean amethysts suitable for faceting occur abundantly, and gem cutters can facet them with almost any design suitable to their size and color. The drill hole and signs of wear on this carved amethyst figure of a female monkey holding its baby suggests this was worn as an amulet.

To learn more about the myths and legends associated with this gem, consult our symbolism article. The Ancient Greeks created amethyst carvings and jewelry pieces as well as one of the most enduring bits of amethyst folklore - its supposed power to prevent drunkenness. The Ancient Egyptians carved these durable gemstones into the shapes of animals, perhaps as protective amulets. People have prized amethysts for thousands of years. Flower ring with 6 mm amethyst center stone and 2.5 mm accent amethysts. Since this stone is plentiful, there is little reason to pay top dollar for pieces with visible inclusions or inferior cutting.įor more information on amethyst value and quality factors, consult our amethyst buying guide. Since amethyst is readily available in large sizes, its value per carat climbs gradually, not exponentially. Rose de France Amethyst, 11.3 ct, faceted with an Ultra Tec V5 and Fantasy Machine. The artistry of gemstone faceting can shine through these gems if given fancy and unusual cuts. The lightest, pinkish violet shades are called “Rose de France,” a clever bit of marketing. Used with permission.Īlthough Siberian reigns atop the value listing, light-colored amethyst has enjoyed a resurgence in popularity. This 2.55-ct amethyst from Zambia possesses the coveted “Siberian” color. Instead, this is now a trade and grade term referring to colors similar to those of the amethysts mined in Siberia. Today the term “Siberian” no longer refers to origins. They featured a particularly rich purple color that glowed with red and blue flashes. Siberian mines once produced the world’s finest stones. Value for amethysts depends almost entirely on color. The International Gem Society (IGS) has a list of businesses offering gemstone appraisal services.

Genuine amethyst gemstone